Latisha Mapp was a nursing assistant in 2020 when she lost her beloved mother-in-law to cancer. 

“It took so much of a toll on me that I just needed to do something,” said Mapp. 

The 33-year-old from Middletown decided then to open her own wig shop at the Galleria at Crystal Run in Wallkill. 

Since then, Mapp has helped hundreds of people with cancer and hair loss, like her children’s “Nonna” did, but this time at her store - Nonna’s Crown, named after the woman who meant so much.  

“It’s something they don’t expect,” said the small business owner. “Once they see the transformation, it’s an unbelievable experience for them.” 

Mirza Marte, from Middletown, has stage 4 breast cancer and is one of Mapp's customers. 

“I lost all my hair and my eyebrows. Latisha made me feel comfortable,” said Marte. “It was the most amazing feeling ever. I felt whole again.” 

While anyone can buy one of the wigs, Mapp says for many of her customers it’s more than a hair piece. She says it’s about restoring confidence and providing support when it’s needed most. 

“I want to encourage them. I want to make them feel strong.” 

Mapp is holding a “scare away” breast cancer event with a raffle for a free wig at her store Oct. 30. 

For more information about Nonna's call 845-321-9214.